Rabat relaunches amphibious bus project on Bouregreg: 3rd tender for 25 million DH

Rabat Region Mobility has launched a third tender for two tourist amphibious buses on the Bouregreg River, following two failures in less than a year. The budget is set at 25 million dirhams, with bid opening scheduled for September 10, 2026. Each bus will carry 36 seated passengers. The first two months will be dedicated to feasibility studies and adapting access ramps at Salé Marina or the left bank. Manufacturing, testing, and delivery will take 18 months. The first tender, in November 2025, received a single bid from UK-based Seahorse Amphibious, which was rejected. The second tender, in February 2026, attracted no bidders. Estimated cost per bus is between €650,000 and €750,000 (7.2 to 8.3 million dirhams). For Moroccan expats, this project could become a must-see attraction when visiting Rabat-Salé, offering a unique land-and-water experience. The service would connect Salé Marina to the Bouregreg left bank, boosting the capital’s tourism appeal. It remains to be seen whether the adjusted terms—20-month contract, 12-month warranty—will finally attract manufacturers.